PLAY THERAPY

“Toys are children’s words and play is their language”

- Gary Landreth

Play therapy is a way of helping children who are struggling with big feelings related to issues such as anxiety, a traumatic experience, a loss, attachment difficulties, or a big change. Children don’t process their thoughts and feelings through words like adults do. They use toys and play to express and work through what's troubling them. Through play therapy, I can help a child gain mastery of something that may be overwhelming for them, learn how to cope with their feelings, and increase their self-esteem.

With very young children, I most often recommend dyadic (parent and child in session together) play therapy. By participating in the play therapy session, parents gain greater insight into their child’s needs and experiences. Parents will learn how to engage and respond calmly to their child in ways that are authentic, supportive, and consistent. Together, the parent and child use this time and space to heal, connect, and grow with each other.